Eager to learn – my unforgettable experience

CQUniversity Shane D'Silva

Hello, my name is Shane D’Silva and I am in my final term of the Master of Information Technology at CQUniversity Melbourne campus.

The past two years has truly been a fast-paced, mind-blowing experience. By blood, I hail from India. However, I have lived in Kuwait for almost 18 years.

I spent two years in Dubai as well as another couple of years in Qatar. I am truly grateful for my father who continues to work so hard to have provided our family with the opportunity to experience life in those countries.

When I was younger, I had always wanted to study abroad in America, Canada, UK or Australia. However, I was presented an opportunity to pursue my bachelor’s degree in Computer Science & Engineering at one of India’s most prestigious private university, Manipal Academy of Higher Education.

I completed my studies and then set my sights on being able to start my life abroad. I went through days after days, agents after agents conducting tedious research into universities all over the world to pursue my master’s degree.

Continue reading Eager to learn – my unforgettable experience

Studying in the Pacific - a new adventure at every turn

The Pacific is an incredibly diverse place. New Caledonia, situated within Melanesia, comprises of appropriately a 40% indigenous Kanak community, 29% European, around 9% from Wallis and Futuna, with the remaining from Tahiti, Indonesia, Vietnam, Vanuatu and various other Asian and Pacific island nations.

Earlier this month, I experienced my first cyclone whilst living abroad. It was an interesting experience receiving all the emergency alerts in French. You quickly learn how important it is to have a grasp on the French language to get around! Fortunately, cyclone Uesi passed over Nouméa with very minimal damage and just some much-needed rain.

Continue reading Studying in the Pacific - a new adventure at every turn

Arriving in New Caledonia

I touched down in Nouméa, New Caledonia, late on the evening of January 5, 2020, for an adventure of a lifetime. I was excited to be moving overseas, although somewhat scared, especially at the age of 18. However, I knew this exchange would be an amazing opportunity to grow and develop, as well as improve my French!

I am here to study, intern and undertake language training for 19 months, thanks to the New Colombo Plan Scholarship.

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The importance of being connected

“Whatever is worth doing is worth doing well.” Philip Stanhope

I am a very passionate person who lives by this quote and believes in leading by example. As a member of my generation, it is my responsibility to become active in changing the world for the better. As an international student, I continue to abide by this philosophy and strive to be involved in my community both locally and globally.

Hello, my name is Chiamaka Ibeme and I am studying the Master of Information Technology at CQUniversity Melbourne campus, with the ambition to become a software architect. I am also a Change Champion where I promote and contribute to social innovation, which I am very passionate about.

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Every day is a lesson — discovering myself and capabilities

Hello, my name is Aesha and I come from India. My study journey started from getting a visa grant to landing in the liveliest city in the world: Melbourne.

Being an international student in Australia has been — and will continue to be — a lifelong learning experience. It has not only brought opportunities for me to extend beyond my horizons and enhance my qualification but I have also made some good friends.

MCG football game

Every moment I am here is a lesson in itself because it has made me stronger, confident about my instincts, beliefs and self-esteem level.

Continue reading Every day is a lesson — discovering myself and capabilities

From China to Rockhampton — a unique learning experience and internship opportunity

My name is Kaixiang Zhu and I come from Guangzhou, China. I am currently studying a Master of Information Technology at the Rockhampton campus.

Before I came to Australia, I was told this is a country extremely close to nature. “Animals there are much bigger in size than any other place in the world, such as spiders, ants, crabs, lizards, etc.”

With anxiety, I flew to Rockhampton (Rocky) in Central Queensland, which was the first place I arrived in Australia, and thus my first impression of every aspect I gained of Australia is based on Rocky.

Continue reading From China to Rockhampton — a unique learning experience and internship opportunity

From Peru to Rockhampton — challenging myself and having fun

Hello, my name is Maribel and I come from Peru. For a long time, I wanted to study a postgraduate degree in a different and beautiful country, but it was not a simple decision for me as I knew, I would not be able to see my family and friends as I was used to doing in my home country.

I finally convinced myself though, and thankfully have no regrets! I am challenging myself, learning a lot from great professionals and having fun while experiencing this beautiful country, Australia.

Continue reading From Peru to Rockhampton — challenging myself and having fun

From Philippines to Melbourne — CPA Ambassador Opportunity and Endless Possibilities

Updated November 2019.

Application status Student (subclass 500): Granted. Congratulations! This must be one of the happiest emails that I have received from the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. Welcome to the land down under where I would be studying a Master of Professional Accounting at CQUniversity. Exciting, isn’t it?

I would come to face a new environment, live independently, meet new people from diverse cultures, advance my career through study and a lot more. But, what does it really feel like when you leave home to experience all these things that await you?

Continue reading From Philippines to Melbourne — CPA Ambassador Opportunity and Endless Possibilities

From Nepal to Sydney – how CQUniversity became my second home

Hello, my name is Krishna Sen, I am from a small town in Nepal called Chitwan and am currently studying a Master of Human Resource Management at CQUni Sydney campus.

I left home at the age of 15 for Pune, India after schooling for my higher study. I graduated from one of the renowned universities of India, Savitribai Phule Pune University and it was tough for me to decide what to do next. I wanted to do a masters degree but was confused from where.

Then I thought of Australia — one of the most popular destinations for international student and not once have I ever regretted my decision.

Continue reading From Nepal to Sydney – how CQUniversity became my second home

From Europe to Melbourne — Making Dreams Come True

Sara Manka, CQUniversity Melbourne

Hello, my name is Sara Manka. I grew up in a small family with lots of laughs and love in a small village in Albania. My mum always motivated me to study abroad and experience life in another country, and I always dreamed of living in a big and busy city.

I was about to finish my high school studies when one of my relatives offered to help me come and study in Australia. I always dreamed of becoming an accountant because I really enjoyed maths and I was interested in economics.

Yes, dreams do come true! Soon I found myself in Melbourne studying an Advanced Diploma in Accounting. Continue reading From Europe to Melbourne — Making Dreams Come True